Definition of stupendousnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word stupendous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of stupendous are monstrous, prodigious, and tremendous. While all these words mean "extremely impressive," stupendous implies a power to stun or astound, usually because of size, numbers, complexity, or greatness beyond description.

a stupendous volcanic eruption

In what contexts can monstrous take the place of stupendous?

The words monstrous and stupendous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, monstrous implies a departure from the normal (as in size, form, or character) and often carries suggestions of deformity, ugliness, or fabulousness.

the monstrous waste of the project

When is prodigious a more appropriate choice than stupendous?

Although the words prodigious and stupendous have much in common, prodigious suggests a marvelousness exceeding belief, usually in something felt as going far beyond a previous maximum (as of goodness, greatness, intensity, or size).

made a prodigious effort and rolled the stone aside

Where would tremendous be a reasonable alternative to stupendous?

While in some cases nearly identical to stupendous, tremendous may imply a power to terrify or inspire awe.

the tremendous roar of the cataract

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stupendous Since SpaceX’s stupendous debut, the math governing a potential union has improved substantially. Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 22 June 2026 The best of what was the best of the Crillon has been thoughtfully preserved, while the best of what is new (the bar, the barbershop, L’Ecrin restaurant, and the stupendous suites by the late Karl Lagerfeld) is gobsmacking in its boldness and daring. Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026 But once that stupendous on-screen chemistry between co-stars David Tennant and Michael Sheen kicks back in, the old magic shines through, strong as ever, giving us a fitting end to this beloved comic saga. ArsTechnica, 15 May 2026 What does the Fed have to do with this stupendous progress that personifies growth? John Tamny, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for stupendous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stupendous
Adjective
  • There was something wonderful about the energy of the space—sprinkled with students diligently studying for final exams.
    Dana Kravis, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026
  • The airline’s business class is well worth the splurge, thanks to the delicious food and beverage offerings, comfortable seats, innovative programs, and wonderful service on board.
    Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • There didn’t seem to be an amazing atmosphere inside AT&T Stadium outside Dallas and France didn’t really offer anything to change that.
    Aleks Klosok, CNN Money, 14 July 2026
  • The World Cup has been an amazing spectacle and, mercifully, the sport’s notorious hooligans have been largely absent.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026
Adjective
  • The Jules Rimet Trophy — named after the former FIFA president following his death in 1956 — had an astonishing history.
    Eduardo Tansley, New York Times, 19 July 2026
  • Because of this tremendous heat, hydrogen atoms in the inner core of stars are zipping along at incredible speeds and slamming into each other with astonishing violence.
    Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • Spieth made a miraculous 50-foot eagle putt to give himself a two-stroke lead.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 14 July 2026
  • There was extra time against Cape Verde, a miraculous late-game comeback over Egypt, then extra time again to get by Switzerland.
    Becky Sullivan, NPR, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • Deutch was marvelous as Jean Seberg in last year’s Nouvelle Vague, Richard Linklater’s sprightly film about the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s New Wave classic Breathless.
    Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 10 July 2026
  • Justin Slaten completed a marvelous bottom of the eighth with help from Jarren Duran, who covered 94 feet of ground to make a catch by the left field stands.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 9 July 2026
Adjective
  • Given Nolan’s famous aversion to AI, there was a relief in knowing this incredible display of creativity came primarily from practical effects and shooting on location.
    Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026
  • The Nordstrom Beauty annual sale has returned in grand style, and there are incredible deals to be had.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • Irving Stone’s Michelangelo novel, The Agony and the Ecstasy, introduced me to the idea of the artist, the miracle of a person bringing something wholly new and surprising into the world.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 July 2026
  • There wasn’t much that was surprising, though a complimentary shoe-shining and pant-pressing service was a nice touch.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • Jenny was left fuming after the stunning admission and eventually stormed off into her tent.
    Abigail Adams, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026
  • Two heavy, curved walls bookend each room, providing protection from harsh desert winds and helping frame the stunning vistas.
    Rebekah Peppler, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stupendous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stupendous. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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